Fadeaway

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious "Fadeaway" by the BoDeans from their debut album Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams, a track that perfectly captures the heartland rock vibe for all the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This song, with its driving rhythm and yearning lyrics like "Don't Runaway, Midnight Hideaway, Don't you - Fadeaway! 'til the Morning light," became a staple of the band’s early sound. One piece of trivia comes from the 2009 Collector’s Edition release of the album, which revealed that "Fadeaway" was part of a raw, energetic set performed at a 1985 Minneapolis concert at First Avenue, captured on a DVD included in the reissue. The performance showcased the band’s early intensity, with Sammy Llanas leaping onto amps, his voice slightly higher-pitched than in later years. A fan review on Amazon noted the band’s name on a banner at that show as “DaBoDeans,” a quirky early moniker they wisely trimmed down.

Another tidbit about "Fadeaway" emerges from the album’s production. Recorded in a former shoe factory where the band rehearsed, the track benefited from the gritty, authentic vibe of the space, as noted in liner notes by Kurt Neumann. The song’s B-side, “Try and Try,” was included as a bonus track in the Collector’s Edition, hinting at the band’s Buddy Holly-inspired influences. Fans on Discogs praise the album’s remastered sound, with “Fadeaway” standing out for its jangly guitars and emotional depth, drawing comparisons to Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty. While specific social media posts about the song are scarce, the band’s Instagram often shares throwback photos and clips from the '80s, fueling nostalgia for tracks like “Fadeaway” among longtime followers.

The BoDeans were born in Waukesha, Wisconsin, in 1983, founded by high school friends Sammy Llanas and Kurt Neumann. The duo met in 1977, bonded over music, and began writing songs together. Initially, Neumann played drums while Llanas was still learning guitar, but their sound solidified when Neumann switched to electric guitar. By 1980, they formed a band called Da BoDeans, gigging around Milwaukee with various bassists and drummers. In 1984, Guy Hoffman joined as drummer, followed by Bob Griffin on bass in 1985, completing the lineup that would record their debut. Their big break came when they signed with Slash Records, and with producer T-Bone Burnett, they crafted Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams in 1986, blending roots rock with pop sensibilities. The album’s fresh sound won them the Best New American Band title in Rolling Stone’s 1987 readers’ poll, launching their career.

Today, the BoDeans remain active, with Kurt Neumann leading the band after Llanas’ departure in 2011. You can follow their latest updates on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour dates and behind-the-scenes content. Fans also connect through communities like the BoDeans Fans Facebook group, a hub for Zoo Freaks and others to discuss favorite tracks like “Fadeaway” and share concert memories. For vinyl enthusiasts, Discogs is a go-to for tracking down original pressings of Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams, keeping the band’s legacy alive.